Adisham Bungalow
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Adisham Bungalow

4.5
·1k reviews·Haputale, Sri Lanka

A serene colonial bungalow and active monastery in Haputale's misty hills, offering history, peace, and delicious homemade treats.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Adisham Bungalow

Adisham Bungalow

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene colonial bungalow and active monastery in Haputale's misty hills, offering history, peace, and delicious homemade treats.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A relic of colonial refinement, Adisham Bungalow offers a peaceful escape with stunning gardens and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Respect the Silence

It's a monastery! Keep voices low and dress modestly. No photos inside the bungalow.

🍓 Taste the Local Goodies

Don't miss the delicious homemade strawberry jams and cordials sold at the shop.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colonial Architecture

Colonial Architecture

The Bungalow Exterior

Step back in time with this stunning English-style mansion, a relic of colonial refinement.

Serene Gardens

Serene Gardens

Surrounding the Bungalow

Wander through peaceful gardens, perfect for photos and soaking in the misty hill country air.

Homemade Delicacies

Homemade Delicacies

On-site Shop

Savor delicious homemade strawberry jams, cordials, and fresh produce from the monastery.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

Visit Adisham Bungalow during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. Weekends can get busy, diminishing the serene atmosphere. Arrive before noon for the best light and fewer visitors.

Respect the Monastery's Peace

Remember Adisham Bungalow is an active Benedictine monastery. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor. Photography is restricted inside, so soak in the ambiance.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (Weekdays)
Why
Less crowded, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Adisham Hall, or Adisham Bungalow is a country house near Haputale, in the Badulla District, Sri Lanka. At present, it houses the Adisham monastery of Saint Benedict. It has a relic (a chip of a bone) of St. Sylvester at the chapel. 🍃 📸 : Ravindu Hasintha Perera | https://www.facebook.com/ravindu.perera.779?mibextid=ZbWKwL Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/FqbYqimbaYkGb7HU/ Architect(s...
archi_ceylon
42 likes • 1K views

🤫 Respect the Silence

It's a monastery! Keep voices low and dress modestly. No photos inside the bungalow. Reddit

🍓 Taste the Local Goodies

Don't miss the delicious homemade strawberry jams and cordials sold at the shop. Reddit

Adisham Bungalow...😍🍃 #srilankan #travel #haputhale
travel_life.lk
84 likes • 1.5K views
Adisham Bungalow Srilanka 🇱🇰 #srilanka #スリランカ #srilanka🇱🇰❤️🌏 #haputale_srilanka🇱🇰 #アデイシャム常 #south_asia #dutch #travel_destination #travelling #スリランカ常 #swing #adisham_bungalow #fascinating #nature #bungalow #insta #insta_nature #insta_reel #video_by_me @zamil_zayan
zamil.zayan
60 likes • 502 views

📸 Garden Photo Ops

The gardens are perfect for capturing stunning photos of the bungalow and misty views. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Early Bird Gets Peace

Visit in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before crowds arrive. Reddit

Refined. Regal. Rooted in history — Adisham Bungalow, a relic of colonial refinement here in Haputale, Sri Lanka. . . . #haputhale #explorepage #feed #travel #videocreator #cinematic #adishambungalow #fyp #edits #memories #instagood #history #vídeo #capcut #srilankatravel #srilanka🇱🇰
reen_thasleem
103 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Respect the Silence

It's a monastery! Keep voices low and dress modestly. No photos inside the bungalow. Reddit

🍓 Taste the Local Goodies

Don't miss the delicious homemade strawberry jams and cordials sold at the shop. Reddit

📸 Garden Photo Ops

The gardens are perfect for capturing stunning photos of the bungalow and misty views. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Early Bird Gets Peace

Visit in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before crowds arrive. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Adisham Bungalow is widely praised for its serene atmosphere, beautiful colonial architecture, and charming gardens, offering a peaceful escape in Haputale. Visitors appreciate the historical insights and the delightful homemade jams. However, some find the limited access to interior rooms disappointing and occasionally note an unpleasant smell inside.

"Adisham Bungalow is one of the most charming and peaceful places to visit in Sri Lanka! Surrounded by beautiful gardens, misty hills, and fresh mountain air, it feels like stepping into a little piece of England in the heart of Haputale. The bungalow is well-preserved with a rich history, and the atmosphere is calm and serene.

It’s a perfect spot to enjoy nature, take in the stunning views, and learn about the heritage of this iconic building. The strawberry jams and fresh produce available here are also delightful. 🍓✨ Highly recommend visiting for anyone who loves history, nature, and quiet beauty! 💚"

Sewwandi Wimalaratne

"Adisham Bungalow in Haputale is a truly enchanting place, full of history and charm. Surrounded by peaceful tea plantations and fresh mountain air, it feels like stepping into a different world. The stone architecture and beautiful gardens are perfectly preserved, and the interior reflects its rich colonial heritage. The small museum and shop offer interesting insights and delicious homemade products. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making the visit even more pleasant. A must-visit spot for anyone exploring the hill country of Sri Lanka!"

Sanjeewani Paranawithana

"Adisham Bungalow is a hidden gem in Haputale. Peaceful gardens, historic stone architecture, and stunning mountain views. The architecture and interior give a glimpse of history, and the gardens are perfect for photos. Only a few rooms are open to the public, and it can get busy on weekends, but overall it’s a wonderful experience. Best visited in the morning when it’s less crowded.Don’t miss the homemade jams at the little shop"

Udula Jayasinghe

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Colonial architecture
Beautiful gardens

What People Dislike

Limited interior access
Occasional bad smell

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Adisham Bungalow is located a short distance from Haputale town. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to reach the bungalow. The drive offers scenic views of the surrounding tea estates. Instagram

While direct public transport to the bungalow's entrance might be limited, you can take a bus towards Diyatalawa and ask to be dropped off at the nearest point, then walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride. Reddit

Most visitors travel to Haputale by train from major cities like Colombo or Kandy, enjoying the scenic hill country railway. Alternatively, buses are also available. Instagram

Yes, there is usually ample parking space available for visitors arriving by car or private vehicle. Instagram

Adisham Bungalow is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Ella, making it a convenient stop for those traveling between these popular hill country destinations. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adisham Bungalow is typically open from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can vary. Reddit

Yes, there is a nominal entrance fee to visit Adisham Bungalow. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the property and its monastery. Reddit

Tickets are usually purchased on-site upon arrival. Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! Adisham Bungalow makes for a perfect half-day trip from Haputale, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into history. Instagram

As it's an active monastery, visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor. Photography is not permitted inside the bungalow. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the bungalow itself. However, the exterior and gardens offer plenty of beautiful opportunities for photos. Reddit

The manicured gardens, the colonial facade of the bungalow, and the surrounding misty hills provide excellent backdrops for photography. Instagram

Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites and private properties like Adisham Bungalow to ensure peace and respect. Instagram

Morning light offers a soft glow, while late afternoon can provide dramatic shadows. The misty conditions can also create a unique, atmospheric shot. Instagram

Capture the intricate details of the colonial architecture and the vibrant colors of the gardens. The views from the garden overlooking the valleys are also stunning. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You can explore the well-preserved colonial architecture, wander through the serene gardens, and visit the on-site shop for homemade jams and produce. InstagramReddit

Yes, its peaceful atmosphere, misty surroundings, and beautiful gardens make it an ideal spot for relaxation and quiet contemplation. Instagram

Built in 1931 by Sir William Adisham, it was a country house for a British planter. It now houses the Adisham monastery of Saint Benedict. Instagram+1

While there might not be formal guided tours, the staff are often available to provide information. You can also explore at your own pace and absorb the history. Reddit

Expect a calm, serene, and peaceful atmosphere, reminiscent of a quiet English countryside estate, combined with the spiritual ambiance of a monastery. Instagram

🍽️ 🍓 Food & Dining

Adisham Bungalow primarily features a small shop selling homemade products. There are no full-service restaurants on-site, but you can enjoy their delicious jams and cordials. Reddit

The shop is famous for its homemade strawberry jams, cordials, chutneys, and other fresh produce from the monastery's gardens. InstagramReddit

You can purchase items like jams and cordials to enjoy, but it's not a place for a sit-down meal. It's recommended to dine in Haputale town for lunch or dinner. Reddit

Many visitors highly recommend the homemade jams and cordials, often citing them as a delightful souvenir or treat. InstagramReddit

Prices are generally considered reasonable for the quality of the homemade products. It's a great way to support the monastery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Adisham Bungalow offers a peaceful outing for families, with its beautiful gardens providing space for children to explore. The calm and relaxing environment is a welcome change of pace. While photography is restricted inside, the exterior and gardens are perfect for family photos. The homemade jams and cordials from the shop are a hit with kids and make for a sweet souvenir. InstagramReddit

It's important to remind children to be quiet and respectful of the monastery's atmosphere. The historical aspect might be less engaging for very young children, but the natural beauty and the chance to see a different kind of building can still be captivating. Pack some snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to the shop's offerings. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers seeking tranquility, Adisham Bungalow is an ideal destination. The serene gardens and peaceful ambiance offer a perfect setting for quiet reflection and unwinding. You can spend hours strolling through the grounds, enjoying the misty views, and soaking in the historical atmosphere without feeling rushed. Instagram

The monastery's presence adds to the sense of calm. It's a place where you can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself amidst nature and history. The opportunity to purchase homemade jams and cordials provides a simple, delightful pleasure and a taste of the local produce. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

While photography inside Adisham Bungalow is prohibited, the exterior and surrounding gardens offer a wealth of photographic opportunities. The colonial architecture provides a striking subject, especially when framed by the lush greenery and misty backdrops characteristic of Haputale. Capture the intricate details of the building and the vibrant colors of the flora. Instagram+1

The misty mornings and late afternoons can create dramatic lighting conditions, adding an atmospheric quality to your shots. The expansive gardens are perfect for landscape photography, showcasing the bungalow nestled within its picturesque environment. Remember to be mindful of the monastery's quiet nature when composing your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Colonial Sri Lanka

Adisham Bungalow stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's colonial past, built in 1931 by Sir William Adisham, a British planter. Its English country house architecture transports visitors to a different era, offering a stark contrast to the tropical landscape. The bungalow's design features elements typical of colonial-era residences, emphasizing a blend of elegance and practicality suited for the hill country climate. Exploring its exterior and the limited accessible interior spaces provides a tangible connection to the island's history under British rule. Instagram+1

Today, the bungalow serves a dual purpose, housing the Adisham monastery of Saint Benedict. This transition from a private residence to a spiritual sanctuary adds a unique layer to its character. Visitors can feel the peaceful ambiance that permeates the grounds, a blend of historical significance and monastic tranquility. The presence of a relic of St. Sylvester in the chapel further enhances its spiritual dimension, making it a place of quiet reflection for many. TikTokInstagram

The surrounding tea estates and misty hills of Haputale provide a breathtaking natural setting for the bungalow. This picturesque environment was a key factor in its original selection as a country retreat and continues to be a major draw for visitors seeking scenic beauty and a respite from the heat. The combination of historical architecture and stunning natural landscapes makes Adisham Bungalow a truly unique destination. Instagram

The Serene Monastery Experience

Adisham Bungalow is more than just a historical building; it's an active Benedictine monastery. This spiritual aspect is central to the visitor experience, lending a profound sense of peace and quietude to the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor, reflecting the sanctity of the place. The monastery's presence ensures that the bungalow remains a sanctuary, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. TikTokReddit

The monastery's chapel holds a special significance, housing a relic of St. Sylvester. This adds a layer of religious importance for those interested in pilgrimage or spiritual exploration. Even for secular visitors, the quiet contemplation offered within the monastery's precincts can be a deeply moving experience. The simple yet profound atmosphere encourages introspection and a connection with a different way of life. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the spiritual, the monks at Adisham also cultivate the land, producing delicious homemade products. The on-site shop is a highlight for many, offering jams, cordials, and other treats made with fresh ingredients. Purchasing these items not only provides a delightful souvenir but also supports the monastery's upkeep and its community. It’s a tangible way for visitors to take a piece of Adisham’s charm home with them. InstagramReddit

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